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GAZ-55: Soviet-era ambulance, history and what to know
The GAZ-55 was a Soviet-era ambulance produced in the 1930s at the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ) based on the GAZ-AA and used during World War II. In this article, we look at its history, body, and what you need to know if this historic vehicle catches your eye.
GAZ-55 in brief
The GAZ-55 was a military ambulance produced by the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ) from the GAZ-AA truck. Only around 9,130 units were made, so the Red Army often used regular trucks to transport the wounded.
Production, as stated, continued until 1946. The vehicle appears in the 1941 film 'Frontovye podrugi' and some computer games, and at least one GAZ-55 was captured by a German Luftwaffe unit.
Model history
This model has one iteration and practically one design: a closed ambulance body with a cross on the sides, mounted on a GAZ-AA chassis. Only one version of this model is known.
Today, the GAZ-55 is a museum exhibit that can be seen in Russian museums, for example, in Yekaterinburg at the UGMK museum complex.
Engine and transmission
Like the GAZ-AA, the GAZ-55 had a four-cylinder petrol engine (around 3.3 litres) and a manual transmission. The vehicle wasn't designed for high speeds — its purpose was to reliably transport the wounded over rough terrain.
Specific technical data can vary between sources, so if you're interested in a particular car, it's essential to rely on historical documents and expert opinions.
What to know when looking for a GAZ-55
This is a particularly rare historical car, making it practically impossible to find on regular classified websites. If someone offers you one, verify its provenance: original body, chassis, engine, and documents.
Some of these cars are restored or rebuilt from parts of other GAZ-AA models, so the price greatly depends on authenticity. Reach out to historical car clubs or experts to confirm the vehicle's legitimacy.
Trim levels
This model didn't have distinct trim levels, so we describe it as a single version.
GAZ-55
up to 1946Ambulance based on the GAZ-AA.
- Enclosed ambulance body
- Approximately 9,130 units produced
- Used by the Red Army
GAZ-55 review
| GAZ-55 | |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | For collectors of historical vehicles |
| Overview | GAZ-AA vehicle |
| Produced | Around 9,130 units |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ |
The GAZ-55 is worth considering only for a collection or museum. It's not suitable for daily use, and purchasing it requires historical documents and expert certification.
Pros
- Unique historical value
- An interesting collectible exhibit
- Simple mechanical construction
- Very rare
Cons
- Practically impossible to find for sale
- Few parts available, often need to be custom-made
- Not suitable for daily use
Frequently asked questions
What was the GAZ-55 designed for?
It was a rapid-response vehicle for the Red Army, used to transport the wounded.
How many GAZ-55s were produced?
Around 9,130 units in total.
What is the origin of the GAZ-55?
It was developed by the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ) based on the GAZ-AA truck model.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
